I guess it's time to admit that Summer is coming to an end. We've already had the heating on once or twice.
I hope you've had a wonderful Summer.
As always, here is my round-up of the hot topics heading into September...
Shopping as we used to... 🛒
Many things have started to return to normal, including a return to old shopping habits. Although we're still spending more on groceries than we did in 2019, we are seeing a decline compared with 2020.
Online sales now make up 13% of all grocery sales vs. 15% in February.
This still remains ahead of pre-Covid levels of 7.5%, so don't ignore your eCommerce strategy just yet!
You may have noticed a lot of news about shortages and stock-piling during the last few weeks.
Recent research from IGD has shown that 54% of adults claim to have experienced shortages of some groceries. Only 28% felt the need to stock up or buy more than they normally would (50% in January 2021 and 64% in April 2020).
Back to school season 🍎
Families have started to send their kids back to school. Now is a key moment for food & drink brands to get in lunchboxes!
Parents are increasingly looking for healthy options. The Grocers' packed lunch category report shows that while sandwiches are losing popularity, they are still in 60% of children's lunchboxes.
Back to school is a great opportunity for brands to drive relevance.
I love this Kellogg’s school bus spotted in the front of store in Tesco Reading West.
It’s a shame (and a surprise) the ‘Clubcard Price’ messaging is so small but I’m loving the theming and stand out!
It's great inspiration to get us thinking... What events can you tap into to drive relevance for your brand?
Time for some comfort food 🍽
Starbucks brought their famous Pumpkin Spice Latte back to their menu last week. This has become an iconic moment to mark Autumn's arrival.
Once the weather gets colder, I'm sure you'll be looking to enjoy some more hearty meals.
We can expect to see an increased interest in dishes like stews, casseroles and Yorkshire puddings.
The Great British Bake Off is also due to come back to our screens at the end of September.
It's a great time for food brands to appeal to consumers looking for food inspiration and Autumnal comfort!
What's the moment that marks the start of Autumn for you?
Looking forward to Christmas 🎄
The Christmas ranges have already started to hit the supermarket shelves including this year's own label food and drink ranges.
Tesco's Wicked Kitchen Chocolate and Salted Caramel Cake is one for my shopping list!
We had a different type of Christmas last year and shopping started earlier than usual.
It will be interesting to see if the same happens this year. Check out Retail Week's prediction for the festive best sellers this year.
How early do you start your Christmas shopping?
September marks the end of the Summer in many ways. That always comes with a fresh perspective as we head into the colder months.
It's time to start thinking about opportunities for 2022. If there is anything I can do to help you or your business, please get in touch!
Continue to stay safe, well and positive.
Ella.
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